Pisces 20 Feb-20 March An opportune, if tricky, month is coming, especially if you fancy sloughing off an old skin, outworn reputation or deadening relationship. Innovation is what Tuesday's new Moon has in mind; anything from a software upgrade to renegotiating your love life - whatever extends your autonomy. As Mercury is sliding backwards from Thursday, tactically expect two steps forward to need one that must go back.

Aries 21 March-19 April It would be terrific if you could duck the daily grind to recharge your batteries until your birthday - an ayurvedic retreat would do it. Bear in mind this isn't your most empowered few weeks, that a retrograde Mercury makes many decisions provisional and that health should come first. Remember companionship and conviviality are there for the taking.

Taurus 20 April-20 May Remaining steadfast is a great Taurean virtue, but shouldn't mean being predictable. Since the intentions of those in authority may be hazy going on erratic, keep your patience and pull a few professional surprises of your own. Support (and luck) is available from your other half. If you're single, there's a fine few weeks for surprise sunny encounters.

Gemini 21 May-20 June It's good to have issues out in the open, but decide if professional interests are best served by outright confrontation or more subtle demonstrations of your strength. As your ruler, Mercury, turns backwards on Thursday, you're less likely to get straight information from your work situation than a string of changed plans. Your personal life, though, might just respond to a little impatience.

Cancer 21 June-22 July Tuesday's new Moon is a dazzling moment for a good resolution, one that will stretch your abilities and geographical boundaries to the max. It's a chance not an obligation - a case of nothing ventured, nothing gained, or just choosing cruise control.

Leo 23 July-22 Aug It's one thing to live as if to the manor born (every Leo's birthright), but quite another to raise funds to do so. The incoming planetary tide should help you extort more help from partners, family benefactors and work, but getting your paws on the loot may take a few weeks. Plan with patience, and nurture colleagues - and that means no fights!

Virgo 23 Aug-22 Sep Contrary to small talk, Virgos can be ardent creatures who tend to fall in love inappropriately and may even throw over a dull spouse for adventure. At the least, your horoscope is at a point where passions count more than convention and being taken for granted is no longer an option. Set a few boundaries, even compartmentalise partners, family friends and work.

Libra 23 Sep-23 Oct Sheer practicality, and finding the energy to keep the wheels of industry turning, has to be the priority now, with a call for super-human efforts to clear your desk before Thursday evening. Solving the puzzles of your heart and its current vulnerability are best postponed until next weekend, when Venus finally arrives to help fortify your spirit and clarify many of your feelings.

Scorpio 24 Oct-21 Nov The role of playful spring fawn is not one always associated with Scorpio, but then it's not every year you have zestful Jupiter in your sign. According to choice, the next few weeks will encourage you to play moonstruck lover, inspired artist or unrepentant party animal. Though you can't take your eye off the professional prizes, make time to pursue your personal passions as well.

Sagittarius 22 Nov-21 Dec If you're glowing in the satisfaction of feeling rooted and stable, congratulations. Your horoscope is at least as interested in change and transformation, be it re-writing your professional script, moving home or giving a make-over to your public persona. Not that you are anything but genial, but with several planets squaring up, it's time to insist on respect to go with the smiles.

Capricorn 22 Dec-19 Jan One phase ends and another begins. If you have projects to complete (especially any started in December), or relationships to clarify (ditto) here's the time to wrap things up. You remain in a position of strength, but with Mercury going whoopsie on Thursday, your schedules and phone may follow suit. Be prepared. Socially, you still have the magic touch; make the most of it.

Aquarius 20 Jan-19 Feb Even if tied down by circumstance or contract, there's a chance to make a career mark now, though short cuts (as in cheating) are to be avoided at all costs. Nobility, and good PR, reign. If you're single, things are just loosening up.